DRINKING less helps boost the health of your heart, according to research.

The study, published in the latest issue of the British Medical Journal, challenges previous findings that suggested small to moderate amounts of alcohol could actually have a protective effect on the heart.

Scientists in London and Philadelphia analysed the drinking habits of 250,000 people and found those who drank less had a “more favourable cardiovascular profile”.

The authors wrote: “These findings suggest that reductions of alcohol consumption, even for light to moderate drinkers, may be beneficial for cardio-vascular health.”